Among the most elegant post-war bodies created for Rolls-Royce was the Silver Cloud II Drophead Coupé by H.J. Mulliner, design number 7504. The car was known as an ‘adaptation’, and it was created using a factory-standard steel saloon body which was modified into a convertible by removing the steel top, fitting two doors in place of the usual four, and adding a modified chromed waistline moulding. So extensive were Mulliner’s modifications that the resulting car was, in its every detail, essentially a fully custom body, and indeed, the cars were available with the same range of bespoke options available to any Rolls-Royce client—that is to say, anything the buyer desired.

This particular car, chassis number SBT190, was one of two Silver Cloud II Drophead Coupé adaptations purchased new by early cruise ship magnate, Max Wilson of Wilson Interests, Ltd., on Earl’s Court Road in London. Mr Wilson’s specifications for the car, detailed in its accompanying build records, include power windows and top, as well as radio speakers in the rear seat armrests. It has remained in its current ownership for three decades, being routinely serviced in that duration by known UK specialists in Rolls-Royce and Bentley. Seatbelts were installed in 2005, while in 2010 it received over £12,000 in major renovations of the coachwork and engine by English Automotive Services. It recently underwent a full cosmetic and mechanical service by the Hong Kong branch of the respected Frank Dale & Stepsons, at an additional cost of some £20,000. In almost 30 years of care, it has been driven only about 6,000 miles by its proud owner.

This is a lovely, well-maintained example of the most desirable Silver Cloud II iteration, offered with loving care from its long-term home, ready to be enjoyed for another 30 years of motoring.